Difference between revisions of "Pz.II C"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert the screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, they will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''-->
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<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' ('''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a Rank {{Specs|rank}} German light tank {{Battle-rating|1}}. It was introduced in during the Closed Beta Test for Ground Forces before Update 1.41.
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 +
{{Break}}
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' ('''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during the Closed Beta Test for Ground Forces before Update 1.41.
  
The Pz.II C is a vehicle that fits well for any line-up using low-rank German tanks. The first of its line in the German tech tree, the Pz.II C can be distinguished from the later [[Pz.II F|Ausf. F]] by it heavier frontal armor. However, a distinguishing feature for this series of Panzer II is the trademark 20 mm automatic cannon, which can be a curse for new users and a gift for players who know how to use the vehicle well. This autocannon can give several misconception on the Pz.II utility, which lures players into assuming it's a close quarters vehicle. The reality is much different - at close ranges, the 20 mm autocannon with its 280 round per minute rate of fire and APCR PzGr.40 ammo can have great effect on a single target, but the reload time and capacity of 10 rounds per magazine will backfire hard if facing against more tanks than a single magazine can deal with.\
+
The Pz.II C is a vehicle that fits well in any line-up using low-rank German tanks. The first of its column in the German tech tree, the Pz.II C can be distinguished from the later [[Pz.II F|Ausf. F]] model by its heavier frontal armour. A distinguishing feature for this series of Panzer II is the trademark 20 mm automatic cannon, which can be a curse to new users or a gift to players who know how to use the vehicle well. This autocannon can give several misconceptions on the Pz.II's utilities that can lure players into assuming it is a close quarters vehicle. The reality is much different - at close ranges, the 20 mm autocannon with its 280 round per minute (RPM) rate of fire and ''PzGr.40'' APCR ammo can have a great effect on a single target, but the reload time and 10 round-capacity per magazine can backfire hard if the Pz.II C faces against more tanks than a single magazine can deal with.
 
 
!I just have to say, as the original person who wrote this - whoever came through and re-edited this did a good job for stats and linking, but someone should go through and fix some of the serious grammar errors made. - AManAndHisTank
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
<!--''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpfull for survival in combat?''
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<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
+
[[File:Pz.II C Screenshot 2.jpg|thumb|Pz.II C on frozen pass]]
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''-->
+
The Pz.II C has (on the surface) decent frontal armour, with 35 mm for the front plate with a section of heavily sloped 30 mm armour on the glacis, then a sloped lower glacis that has 35 mm as well. The side, rear, and hull roof armour are a paltry 15 mm, including the turret sides. The front turret face is 30 mm that do not overlap with the 30 mm thick gun mantlet well so it will be rare, if not impossible, for a chance at relying on a 60 mm overlapping area to deflect rounds.
The Pz.II C has (on the surface) decent frontal armor, with a total of 35 mm for the upper mantlet, a section of heavily sloped 30 mm armor, and then the lower mantlet has the same as the top. The side armor is a paltry 15 mm, and the back, hull roof, and turret sides are all the same. The front turret face is 30 mm, and despite appearances, does not overlap, meaning there is no chance of an enemy shot ricocheting off a sliver that constitutes 60 mm!
 
  
Generally speaking, the Pz.II C does not have enough armor to defend itself unless the enemy is engaging from an extreme range (which most early tanks can't reasonably do well) or are facing SPAA who are only using HE, as well as some early french tanks.  
+
Generally speaking, the Pz.II C does not have enough armour to defend itself unless fighting from an extreme range (which most early-ranked tanks can't reasonably do well), facing SPAA vehicles that are only using high-explosive shells or facing against some early-ranked French tanks.
  
Put shortly - do everything to ensure that the Pz.II C is not hit, because even one well placed shot in the crew compartment will likely destroy the Pz.II C in one shot.
+
Put shortly - do everything to ensure that the Pz.II C does not get hit, because even one well placed shot in the crew compartment will likely knock the Pz.II C out.
  
 
'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
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| Turret || 30 mm (9-74°) ''Turret front'' <br> 30 mm (5-52°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 15 mm (20-46°) || 15 mm (16-22°) || 10 mm
 
| Turret || 30 mm (9-74°) ''Turret front'' <br> 30 mm (5-52°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 15 mm (20-46°) || 15 mm (16-22°) || 10 mm
 
|-
 
|-
! Armour !! Sides !! Roof  
+
! Armour !! Sides !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Cupola || 15 mm || 10 mm
 
| Cupola || 15 mm || 10 mm
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=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
<!--''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and maneuverability as well as the maximum speed forward and backward.''-->
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<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
Mobility wise, the Pz.II C is actually better than most, but the BT series tanks and M3 Stuarts will still outrun the tank quite easily. Regardless, the Pz.II C can get around the battlefield quite respectably, and the vehicle's power to weight ratio makes for easier going up hills than larger, heavier vehicles. Odds are that the Pz.II C is not going to outrun the enemy team, therefore locating good cover is immensely useful.
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 +
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=217|rbMinHp=124}}
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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Mobility-wise, the {{PAGENAME}} is actually better than most of its peers, but the [[BT-5|BT]] series tanks and [[M3 Stuart]]s will still outpace it quite easily. Regardless, the {{PAGENAME}} can get around the battlefield quite respectably, and the vehicle's power-to-weight ratio makes it easy to go up steep inclines than larger, heavier vehicles. However, the {{PAGENAME}} is not going to outrun a pursuing enemy team, so locating good cover is immensely useful for its survival.
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Mobility characteristic
 
|-
 
! Weight (tons)
 
! colspan="1" | Add-on Armor<br>weight (tons)
 
! colspan="1" | Max speed (km/h)
 
|-
 
| rowspan="2" | 9.1 || colspan="1" rowspan="2" | N/A || colspan="1" | 49 (AB)
 
|-
 
|44 (RB/SB)
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine power (horsepower)
 
|-
 
! colspan="1" | Mode
 
!Stock
 
!Upgraded
 
|-
 
|''Arcade''
 
|217
 
|267
 
|-
 
|''Realistic/Simulator''
 
|124
 
|140
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
 
|-
 
! colspan="1" | Mode
 
!Stock
 
!Upgraded
 
|-
 
|''Arcade''
 
|23.85
 
|29.34
 
|-
 
|''Realistic/Simulator''
 
|13.63
 
|15.38
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
<!--''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibilty of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''-->
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
{{main|KwK 30 (20 mm)}}
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[[File:Pz.II C Screenshot 1.jpg|thumb|Pz.II C firing its main weapon]]
 +
{{main|KwK30 (20 mm)}}
  
The main armament of the Pz.II C is the KwK 30, 20 mm automatic cannon.  
+
The main armament of the Pz.II C is the 20 mm KwK 30 automatic cannon.
  
With the ability to access APCR capable of penetrating 64mm at point blank, this thing will go through enemy armor like it is fabric.  
+
With the ability to load HVAP rounds capable of penetrating 64 mm at point blank range, combined with its magazine-loaded rapid fire, the 20 mm can puncture through most enemy armour at this battle rating range like it is fabric.
  
The biggest problem with the autocannon is the 10 round magazines combined with a 7.4 stock reload time, meaning that the tank may successfully take out 2-3 enemy tanks with controlled bursts, but likely to be taken out during the reload. The second biggest problem is also the tank's biggest pro, and that's the PzGr.40 ammunition, which has great pen statistics out to 200-300 yards, but does not maintain velocity beyond those distances as well as the standard PzGr. round in the standard belt.
+
The biggest problem with the 20 mm autocannon is the 10 round magazines combined with a 7.8s stock reload time, meaning that the tank may successfully take out two or three enemy tanks with controlled bursts, but is likely to be taken out during the reload. Another problem to consider is in the powerful HVAP ammunition, in that its impressive penetration statistics can make the gun reach out to about 200-300 meters, but the penetrative power drops off rapidly after that due to velocity drop, even more so than the standard ''PzGr'' round.
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="6" | [[KwK 30 (20 mm)|20 mm KwK 30]]
+
! colspan="6" | [[KwK30 (20 mm)|20 mm KwK30]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
+
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! rowspan="1" | Fire rate <br> (shots/minute)
+
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! rowspan="1" | Vertical <br> guidance
+
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal <br> guidance
 
! rowspan="1" | Stabilizer
 
 
|-
 
|-
| colspan="2" | 150 (10) || 280 || -9°/+20° || ±180° || N/A
+
! ''Arcade''
 +
| rowspan="2" | 180 (10) || rowspan="2" | 280 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Vertical || 13.33 || 18.45 || 22.40 || 24.77 || 26.35 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="6" | Turret rotation speed (°/s)
+
! ''Realistic''
|-
+
| 8.33 || 9.80 || 11.90 || 13.16 || 14.00
! style="width:4em" |Mode
 
! style="width:4em" |Stock
 
! style="width:4em" |Upgraded
 
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
 
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
 
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
 
|-
 
| ''Arcade'' || 8.30 || 11.50 || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
 
|-
 
| ''Realistic'' || 8.30 || 9.80 || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
 
|-
 
! colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Stock
 
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
 
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
 
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
 
|-
 
| 7.80 || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
===== Ammunition =====
+
==== Ammunition ====
 +
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - The belt composition means that 50% of the shells (HEFI-T*) are useless against tanks. However, this belt is reliable against open-topped or thin-skinned vehicles like SPAA vehicles. Since there are no dedicated high-explosive shells for the selection, having one belt of this in reserve does not hurt for those situations.
 +
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - This belt offers a good transition from the Default to the PzGr 40 belt. The round offers decent damage against lightly armoured tanks, especially at close range. Due to lack of high-explosive filler, however, it is better to focus on the PzGr 40 belt to maximize penetration power.
 +
* '''PzGr 40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}} - Probably the best belt with the best penetrating shell for the vehicle. While the damage effects post-penetration can be quite poor, the rapid fire from the autocannon can mitigate this problem by following up quickly with another penetrating shot. In close combat, these shells should be used against modules and crew member to make the most of each shell. Against angled armour, however, the HVAP ammo may not be very effective. Unlike the Flakpanzer 1 and Flakpanzer 38, this belt is still 100% HVAP.
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
+
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration''' '''''in mm''''' '''@ 90°'''
+
|-
 +
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 +
|-
 +
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
 
|-
 
|-
! 10m
+
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
! 100m
 
! 500m
 
! 1000m
 
! 1500m
 
! 2000m
 
 
|-
 
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 46 || 45 || 33 || 23 || 15 || 11
+
| PzGr 40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 8 || 3 || 1
 
|-
 
|-
| PzGr 40 || HVAP-T || 64 || 63 || 33 || 23 || 15 || 11
 
|-
 
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T* || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
 
|-
 
 
|}
 
|}
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="11" | Shell details
+
! colspan="10" | Belt details
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
+
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
! rowspan="2" |Velocity <br /> in m/s
+
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
! rowspan="2" |Projectile<br />Mass in kg
+
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse delay''
+
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
''in m:''
+
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse sensitivity''
+
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
''in mm:''
+
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
! rowspan="2" | ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
! rowspan="2" | ''Normalization At 30° <br> from horizontal:''
 
! colspan="3" | ''Ricochet:''
 
 
|-
 
|-
! 0%
+
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
! 50%
 
! 100%
 
 
|-
 
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.15 || N/A || N/A || N/A || -1° || 47° || 60° || 65°
+
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.15 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
|-
 
|-
| PzGr 40 || HVAP-T || 1050 || 0.1 || N/A || N/A || N/A || +1.5° || 66° || 70° || 72°
+
| PzGr 40 || HVAP-T || 1,050 || 0.1 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 66° || 70° || 72°
|-
 
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T* || 900 || 0.11 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || +0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
|-
 
|}
 
 
 
=====Belt types=====
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
| '''Belts''' || '''Shell composition''' || '''Combat usage'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
| align="left" |'''''Default ''''' || align="left" | [[:Category:Ammunition#Kinetic_energy_shells|API-T]], [[:Category:Ammunition#Cannon_shells|HEFI-T]] <br>(Armour Piercing Incendiary tracer – High Explosive Fragmentation Incendiary tracer) shell || align="left" | 50% of this belt are useless against tanks or planes. However against other SPAA this belt can reliably take out crew, armament, ammo and engine. Having one belt in reserve does not hurt.
 
|-
 
| align="left" |'''''PzGr''''' || align="left" | [[:Category:Ammunition#Kinetic_energy_shells|API-T]] <br> (Armour Piercing Incendiary tracer) shell || align="left" | Intermediate usage until the better PzGr 40 can be used. Decent enough versus light tanks and other vehicles from the rear. Due the lack of HE filler underwhelming damage, yet still better than the PzGr 40.
 
|-
 
| align="left" |'''''PzGr''''' || align="left" | HVAP-T <br> (High Velocity Armour Piercing tracer) shell || align="left" | Best penetrating shell of this vehicle. However, the damage effects are very poor. In close combat snipe for modules and crewmember for increased survival rate. Nothing is more annoying than emptying a clip and then to get destroyed during the reload because the enemy gunner survived. Against angled armoured it is not very effective like any other APCR shell, this is offset by the very high base penetration though.
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
===== [[Ammo racks|Ammo racks]] =====
+
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Full<br />ammo
+
! Full<br>ammo
! class="wikitable unsortable" |1st<br />rack empty
+
! 1st<br>rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |2nd<br />rack empty
+
! 2nd<br>rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Visual<br /> discrepancy
+
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
| '''15''' || 8&nbsp;''(+7)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+14)'' || style="text-align:center" | Yes
+
| '''18''' || 11&nbsp;''(+7)'' || 7&nbsp;''(+11)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+17)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
* Right flank empty: 11&nbsp;''(+7)''
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
<!--''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft, but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''-->
+
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
{{main|MG 34 (7.92 mm)}}
+
{{main|MG34 (7.92 mm)}}
  
Mounted opposite to the 20 mm Automatic is an MG 34, loading AP-I/AP-I/AP-T in 50 round belts. With 13 mm of maximum penetration at point blank, this gun's 800 rpm rate of fire will make short work of unarmored vehicles like the truck based SPAA as well as exposed tank destroyer crewmen.
+
Mounted opposite to the 20 mm autocannon is the MG 34, which is loaded with a 50 round belt with an AP-I/AP-I/AP-T ammo pattern. With 13 mm of maximum penetration at point blank range, this gun's 800 RPM rate of fire will make short work of unarmoured vehicles like truck-based SPAA, as well as exposed enemy crewmen.
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
 
! colspan="7" | [[MG 34 (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm MG 34]]
 
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="7" | ''Coaxial mount''
+
! colspan="5" | [[MG34 (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm MG34]]
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
! rowspan="1" | Fire rate <br> (shots/minute)
 
! rowspan="1" | Vertical <br> guidance
 
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal <br> guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
| colspan="4" | 1,800 (150) || 900 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 1,800 (150) || 900 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
== Usage in the battles ==
+
== Usage in battles ==
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
The main key to success with this vehicle is to drive aggressively, trying to get shots at relatively close range (100m-300m or even less). Aiming for the enemy's weak spots, it is often possible to set the opponent on fire, allowing the Pz II to take on vehicles beyond its battle rating.
+
The main key to success with this vehicle is to drive aggressively, trying to take shots at relatively close range (100-300 meters or even less). Aim for the enemy's weak spots such as modules and crew members. Go for flank or rear shots in order to make the most of the 20 mm close-range penetration power on the enemy's thinner armour plates.
  
Where possible, try to use the terrain to remain hull down, even the smallest undulations are quite often enough to mask the hull, allowing the Pz.II C to take quick shots with minimal risk, however closing the distance quickly with the opponent is really the only way to ensure the shells penetrate and destroy the enemy, as the Pz.II thin armour is not enough to slug it out in a face up fight.
+
When positioning the Pz.II C, try to use the terrain to remain hull down so that a quick reverse can mask the hull. With this position, the Pz.II C can quickly scoot forward and fire off a few quick shots before reversing to a safe position away from enemy fire. Keep this in mind when attempting to ambush the enemy in an open arena with little cover, as cover and concealment are more reliable in disrupting enemy return fire accuracy than the Pz.II's thin armour.
  
Also, as a light tank with good speed, the Pz.II C can spot tanks (not the scouting way unfortunately) for allies to hit or use the artillery support to disable opponents by breaking their tracks and then calling in support.
+
Alternatively, the Pz.II C can be played as a support vehicle, a second line tank, to say the least, to assist more armoured allies when pushing the cap. Use short bursts (2-4 rounds ideally) to disable enemy vehicles by targeting weak points like their transmission or turret crew, then use the remaining ammo to take out the rest of the enemy crew, or let friendly tankers take them out for assists. The Pz.II C lacks the mobility to disengage and run from tanks like the M3 Stuarts or BT series tanks, but if their transmission, driver, or tracks are taken out, they will be temporarily immobilized and the Pz.II C player has bought themselves time to scurry back to friendly lines, where more powerful guns and numbers can be brought to counter the enemy.
  
Alternatively, the Pz.II C can be played as a support vehicle for friendly tanks when pushing the cap, a second line tank to say the least. Use short (2-4 rounds ideally) bursts to disable enemy vehicles by targeting points like their transmission or turret crew, then use the remaining ammo to take out the rest of the enemy crew, or let friendly tankers take them out to earn multiple assists. The Pz.II C lack the mobility to disengage and run from tanks like the M3 Stuarts or BT series tanks, but if their transmission, driver or tracks are taken out (all of which are visible from the front in both cases), the Pz.II C player can buy themselves enough time to scurry back to friendly lines, simultaneously luring those enemy tanks towards the bulk of the friendly team.  
+
Also, as a light tank with decent speed and low profile, the Pz.II C can act as a spotter (unfortunately without the use of the [[Scouting|scout]] mechanics) to locate enemy tanks for allies to prioritize and hit with guns, artillery, or airstrikes.
 +
[[File:Pz.II C Screenshot 3.jpg|thumb|Pz.II C driving through frozen pass]]
 +
The biggest threat to the Pz.II C on the battlefield are tanks that have very good armour and firepower at the expense of their mobility. The [[Valentine Mk I|Valentine]], [[FCM.36]], and [[Matilda Mk II|Matilda]] are examples of tanks that will easily deflect even 20 mm ''PzGr 40'' shots, either due to their impressive frontal hull and turret armour, or just because they are so slow that the Pz.II C will engage them at ranges that render the shell penetration power ineffective. If one of these tanks are spotted trundling along in the distance, do not bother taking the shot because the 20 mm are unlikely able to do even cosmetic damages, while at the same time drawing their attention and revealing the Pz.II C's position due to the shell tracers.
  
The biggest threat to the Pz.II C are tanks that put all their points into armor, to the extent that their mobility are hindered, but not necessarily firepower. The Valentine, FCM 36, and Matilda are examples of tanks that will easily deflect 20 mm shots with even the PzGr.40 loaded, either due to their impressive frontal hull and turret armor, or just because they are so slow that the Pz.II C will engage them at ranges that render the shell penetration power ineffective. If one of these tanks are spotted trundling along in the distance, do not bother taking shots because the 20 mm are not likely to even scratch them, while drawing their attention and revealing the Pz.II C position due to the shell tracers.
+
Generally speaking, if the target is about the size of a coin when looking at it on max zoom in the gunner's sight, it is too far for effective fire and should not be engaged.
  
Generally speaking, if the target is smaller than a coin when looking at it on max zoom in the gunner's sight, do not bother firing.
+
A more advanced method of playing this is to use it like an autoloading gun from higher BRs - fire only one or two shots per click at a given time. This helps avoid spraying uselessly at bigger, more stubborn targets.
 +
 
 +
=== Modules ===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 +
! Protection
 +
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Tracks
 +
|
 +
| Parts
 +
| Horizontal Drive
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
| Suspension
 +
| Brake System
 +
| FPE
 +
| Adjustment of Fire
 +
| PzGr
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Filters
 +
|
 +
| Crew Replenishment
 +
| Elevation Mechanism
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
| Transmission
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
| Artillery Support
 +
| PzGr 40
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 +
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 +
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
* Good armour on the front
+
* Decent frontal armour: when angled it can be immune to common opponents like the [[BT-5]], [[BT-7]], [[M3A1 Stuart|M3A1]] and [[A13 (Family)|A13]]
* Autocannon provides better damage than most guns of its rank
+
* Overall superior firepower: autocannon shoots rapidly, resulting in denser fire, and with the PzGr 40 belt it can penetrate any tank, including the [[B1 bis]] when aiming correctly
* Can fire off several shots in quick succession to scan the target for weak spots, and then fire at them.
+
* Fast top speed and great agility makes it a great flanker
* Fast, very agile
+
* Curved turret armour of 30 mm plus -10 degrees gun depression allows it to hull-down on hills easily
* Low Profile
+
* Small width means it can manoeuvre through or hide in narrow passages in urban maps, allowing it to ambush or flank unexpectedly
* Turret is hard to jam
+
* Low profile makes it easy to hide behind bushes or cover
* Extra armour plates on the upper and lower mantlet give 30-40mm of effective armour to areas of the turret front
+
* In Simulator mode, friendly fire is less likely due to the very distinct shape and profile
* Dangerous to lightly armoured vehicles
 
* Very good at urban-based maps, small width can maneuvre through narrow passages
 
* Loader is often hard to incapacitate from the front
 
* Engine is placed far right of the vehicle
 
* PzGr 40 rounds are extremely powerful- a 6-round burst can knock out most tanks
 
* Very distinctive profile means friendly fire can be effectively nil
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
* Poor penetration when not using HVAP-T rounds
+
* Only performs well at close quarters combat, as both the AP and HVAP penetration drop below 30 mm past 500 m, making it struggle to penetrate common opponents such as the [[M3 Stuart (Family)|M3]]/[[M5 Stuart (Family)|M5]] Stuart and B1 bis
* Low amount of crew members
+
* Magazine-loaded armament means there is lengthy downtime for reloading where you are vulnerable
* Lacking at ranged shootouts
+
* Survivability is still inadequate: unsloped armour plus closely-packed crew of 3 means it is very vulnerable to [[T-26]], BT-5 or [[M8 General Scott (Family)|M8 Scott]] which all have explosive AP
* Penetration values scales poorly when uptiered and especially at longer ranges
+
* Although top speed is good, it is still slower than other light tanks like the infamous BT-5, [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]] and M3/M5
* Top speed is slower than the fastest tank encountered, which are common opponents
+
* Poor damage of 20 mm shells means that new players cannot effectively destroy spacious tanks like [[LVT(A)(1)]]
* Does not enjoy the luxury of SPAA 20 mm autocannons that have more rounds per magazine
+
* Low penetration when not using HVAP-T rounds. When stock it is useless against a B1 bis or M3/M5 (frontally)
* Aggressive enemies will view the Pz.II C as an easy target and will gun for it
 
* Relatively cramped interior make it easy for tank to be knocked out in one shot, as shot can hit crew, fuel, or ammo
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
===Development===
 
===Development===
In 1934, the development of the new German tanks, which would be the [[Pz.III E|Panzer III]] and [[Pz.IV E|Panzer IV]], was falling behind schedule despite an urgent need for tanks. As a stopgap solution until the designs were finalized, the Germany Army submitted a request for a new tank, giving the responsibility of designing to Krupp, MAN, Henschel, and Daimler-Benz. The product was a design that is based off the German Panzer I light tank, but was larger with the addition of an extra bogie wheel and had a 20 mm autocannon as its main armament. The finished tank was designated the '''Panzer II''' and production was to start in 1935, but did not start delivering tanks until 18 months later. At this time, it was in a low rate production status by 1936. By the time the Panzer II reached the '''Ausf. C''' designation it was fitted with a superior suspension system to support the weight of the tank. The changes included five larger wheels attached to new leaf springs. In 1937 the Ausf. C entered full production with MAN and other manufacturers. Over 1,600 Panzer II light tanks were produced between 1937 to 1942.  
+
In 1934, the development of the new German tanks, which would be the [[Pz.III E|Panzer III]] and [[Pz.IV E|Panzer IV]], was falling behind schedule despite an urgent need for tanks. As a stopgap solution until the designs were finalized, the Germany Army submitted a request for a new tank, giving the responsibility of designing to Krupp, MAN, Henschel, and Daimler-Benz. The product was a design based off the German Panzer I light tank, but was larger with the addition of an extra bogie wheel and had a 20 mm autocannon as its main armament. The finished tank was designated the '''Panzer II''' and production was to start in 1935, but tank deliveries did not start until 18 months later. At this time, it was in a low rate production status by 1936. By the time the Panzer II reached the '''Ausf. C''' designation, it was fitted with an improved suspension system to support the tank's weight. The changes included five larger wheels attached to new leaf springs. In 1937, the Ausf. C entered full production with MAN and other manufacturers. Over 1,600 Panzer II light tanks were produced between 1937 to 1942.
  
The Panzer II incorporated new design changes from the Panzer I following experiences on tank warfare from the Spanish Civil War. The armour was widened to block shells rather than machine gun fire and shrapnel, so the armour thickness was 14 mm on front, sides, and back in the Panzer II Ausf. A through C. The 20 mm autocannon on the turret was based off the 20 mm FlaK 30 then in use with a firing rate of 600 rpm from a 10-round magazine, the tank also came with a coaxial machine gun as well. The turret was hand cranked by the commander, who doubled as the gunner of the tanks. The crew of the Panzer II consist of three people, the driver, commander, and loader who doubled as a radio operator. The Panzer II Ausf. C could reach a speed of 40 km/h with its leaf spring suspension system and Maybach HL62TR engine.  
+
===Combat usage===
 +
The Panzer II would serve in the initial stages of World War II in Poland, France, North African Campaign, and Operation Barbarossa as Germany's most numerous tank (By May 1940, there were about a thousand Panzer Is and IIs, but only 381 Panzer III and 290 Panzer IVs). By 1941, it was clear that the Panzer II was starting to become obsolete. With increasing quantity of Panzer IIIs and IVs, the Panzer II was relegated to reconnaissance duties. By 1942, it was largely removed from front lines and production ceased by 1943. The turrets of these tanks were repurposed for use on defensive bunkers on the Atlantic Wall, and the chassis continued in service for other roles, such as a self-propelled gun and tank destroyer in the ''Wespe'' and ''Marder II'' respectively.
  
===Combat usage===
+
Early in the war during Poland and French Campaigns, the Panzer II Ausf. C's armour was deemed inadequate as every anti-tank weapon in service at the time could penetrate the armour. The German response was to increase the armour, first with a front armour increase to 30 mm on the Ausf. D, then ending with a 35 mm front armour and 20 mm side armour on the [[Pz.II F|Panzer II Ausf. F]].
The Panzer II would serve in the initial stages of World War II in the Battle of Poland, France, and in the North African Campaign and Operation Barbarossa as Germany's most numerous tank (By May 1940, there were about a thousand Panzer Is and IIs, but only 381 Panzer III and 290 Panzer IVs). By 1941, it was clear that the Panzer II was starting to become obsolete, and with increasing quantity of Panzer IIIs and IVs, the Panzer II was relegated to reconnaissance duties. By 1942, it was largely removed from front lines and production ceased by 1943. The turrets of these obsolete tanks were used as gun turrets on defensive bunkers on the Atlantic Wall, and the chassis stayed in use for other purposes, such as a self-propelled gun and tank destroyer in the ''Wespe'' and ''Marder II'' respectively.
+
 
 +
=== In-game description ===
 +
This variant of the Pz.Kpfw. II light tank was designed by Henschel and produced by Daimler-Benz.
 +
 
 +
The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C was the third production variant of the tank. It differed from the Ausf. A and Ausf. B tank variants in its improved engine cooling system and the installation of 50 mm thick armored glass in the observation units. The new tank hull was 30 mm taller and 57 mm wider.
 +
 
 +
In 1940, Ausf.C variant tanks were upgraded: the frontal armor of the turret was reinforced with armor sheets 14.5 mm and 20 mm thick, and the frontal armor of the hull was further enhanced 20 mm plates. The construction of the body's front section was modified: over the bent 14.5 mm armor plating protecting the crew, two more plates were welded, joined to one another at a 70° angle. The upper plate had a thickness of 14.5 mm, the lower, 20 mm. A mounted turret which allowed for 360° observation replaced the two-hinged hatch in the tank's roof.
 +
 
 +
The front and rear rim of the turret was protected by a special armored collar. The gun mantlet was equipped with a protective lipped shield on the top and bottom that prevented the joints of the mantlet and edges of the opening from being hit with shrapnel. The gap between the turret box and turret was protected by an armored collar which was welded to the roof of the box. The driver/mechanic's hatch also received an armored shield.
 +
 
 +
The tank's armament remained unchanged, but a modified TZF4/38 sight was installed, and the rear of the hull could have smoke grenade launchers (two on each side) mounted to it.
 +
 
 +
Serial production of Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C tanks lasted from July 1938 to March 1940 and manufactured 100 vehicles.
  
Early in the war during the Poland and French Campaigns, the Panzer II Ausf. C's 14 mm armour was deemed inadequate as every anti-tank weapon served at the time could penetrate this armour. The German response was to increase the armour, first with a front armour increase to 30 mm on the Ausf. D, then ending with a 35 mm front armour and 20 mm side armour on the [[Pz.II F|Panzer II Ausf. F]].
+
Despite its outdated design and weak armament, the Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C was used very actively in combat until mid-1942. Some tank divisions on the Eastern Front used the tanks till 1943.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
<!--''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''-->
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
== Live.Warthunder ==
 
[https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23Pz_II_c '''Skins''' and '''camouflages''' for the Panzer II C from live.warthunder.com.]
 
  
===Sights===
+
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23Pz_II_c Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 +
;Sights
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/675135/en/ RideR2's Realistic gunsight (TZF4a, TZF 5a/b/d/e/f/f2, TZF 9b/b1/c/d, TZF 12/a) for Pzkpfw II, Pzkpfw III, Pzkpfw IV, Pzkpfw V, Pzkpfw VI]
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/675135/en/ RideR2's Realistic gunsight (TZF4a, TZF 5a/b/d/e/f/f2, TZF 9b/b1/c/d, TZF 12/a) for Pzkpfw II, Pzkpfw III, Pzkpfw IV, Pzkpfw V, Pzkpfw VI]
  
== Read also ==
+
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|VX-W-nH8Nfs|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}
  
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/2778/current/ Official War Thunder forum article: [Vehicle Profile<nowiki>]</nowiki> PzKpfw II Ausf C/F and DAK]
+
== See also ==
 +
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
 +
* [[Pz.II]]
  
== Sources ==
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
* [[T-60]]
  
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 +
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* [[wt:en/news/2778/current|[Vehicle Profile] PzKpfw II Ausf C/F and DAK]]
  
 
{{Germany light tanks}}
 
{{Germany light tanks}}

Revision as of 21:29, 24 August 2020

VTOL | Rank 5 USA
AV-8A Harrier Pack
Pz.II C
germ_pzkpfw_ii_ausf_c.png
Pz.II C
AB RB SB
1.3 1.3 1.3
Class:
Research:4 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:2 100 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage Pz.II C.jpg


The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C (Pz.II C) is a rank I German light tank with a battle rating of 1.3 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced during the Closed Beta Test for Ground Forces before Update 1.41.

The Pz.II C is a vehicle that fits well in any line-up using low-rank German tanks. The first of its column in the German tech tree, the Pz.II C can be distinguished from the later Ausf. F model by its heavier frontal armour. A distinguishing feature for this series of Panzer II is the trademark 20 mm automatic cannon, which can be a curse to new users or a gift to players who know how to use the vehicle well. This autocannon can give several misconceptions on the Pz.II's utilities that can lure players into assuming it is a close quarters vehicle. The reality is much different - at close ranges, the 20 mm autocannon with its 280 round per minute (RPM) rate of fire and PzGr.40 APCR ammo can have a great effect on a single target, but the reload time and 10 round-capacity per magazine can backfire hard if the Pz.II C faces against more tanks than a single magazine can deal with.

General info

Survivability and armour

Pz.II C on frozen pass

The Pz.II C has (on the surface) decent frontal armour, with 35 mm for the front plate with a section of heavily sloped 30 mm armour on the glacis, then a sloped lower glacis that has 35 mm as well. The side, rear, and hull roof armour are a paltry 15 mm, including the turret sides. The front turret face is 30 mm that do not overlap with the 30 mm thick gun mantlet well so it will be rare, if not impossible, for a chance at relying on a 60 mm overlapping area to deflect rounds.

Generally speaking, the Pz.II C does not have enough armour to defend itself unless fighting from an extreme range (which most early-ranked tanks can't reasonably do well), facing SPAA vehicles that are only using high-explosive shells or facing against some early-ranked French tanks.

Put shortly - do everything to ensure that the Pz.II C does not get hit, because even one well placed shot in the crew compartment will likely knock the Pz.II C out.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 35 mm (11°) Front plate
30 mm (73°) Front glacis
35 mm (36°) Bottom glacis
15 mm 15 mm 15 mm
Turret 30 mm (9-74°) Turret front
30 mm (5-52°) Gun mantlet
15 mm (20-46°) 15 mm (16-22°) 10 mm
Armour Sides Roof
Cupola 15 mm 10 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels are 10 mm thick while tracks are 15 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 5 mm thick.

Mobility

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 49 10 9.1 217 267 23.85 29.34
Realistic 44 9 124 140 13.63 15.38

Mobility-wise, the Pz.II C is actually better than most of its peers, but the BT series tanks and M3 Stuarts will still outpace it quite easily. Regardless, the Pz.II C can get around the battlefield quite respectably, and the vehicle's power-to-weight ratio makes it easy to go up steep inclines than larger, heavier vehicles. However, the Pz.II C is not going to outrun a pursuing enemy team, so locating good cover is immensely useful for its survival.

Armaments

Main armament

Pz.II C firing its main weapon
Main article: KwK30 (20 mm)

The main armament of the Pz.II C is the 20 mm KwK 30 automatic cannon.

With the ability to load HVAP rounds capable of penetrating 64 mm at point blank range, combined with its magazine-loaded rapid fire, the 20 mm can puncture through most enemy armour at this battle rating range like it is fabric.

The biggest problem with the 20 mm autocannon is the 10 round magazines combined with a 7.8s stock reload time, meaning that the tank may successfully take out two or three enemy tanks with controlled bursts, but is likely to be taken out during the reload. Another problem to consider is in the powerful HVAP ammunition, in that its impressive penetration statistics can make the gun reach out to about 200-300 meters, but the penetrative power drops off rapidly after that due to velocity drop, even more so than the standard PzGr round.

20 mm KwK30 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 180 (10) 280 -9°/+20° ±180° Vertical 13.33 18.45 22.40 24.77 26.35 7.80 6.90 6.36 6.00
Realistic 8.33 9.80 11.90 13.16 14.00

Ammunition

  • Default: API-T · HEFI-T* - The belt composition means that 50% of the shells (HEFI-T*) are useless against tanks. However, this belt is reliable against open-topped or thin-skinned vehicles like SPAA vehicles. Since there are no dedicated high-explosive shells for the selection, having one belt of this in reserve does not hurt for those situations.
  • PzGr: API-T - This belt offers a good transition from the Default to the PzGr 40 belt. The round offers decent damage against lightly armoured tanks, especially at close range. Due to lack of high-explosive filler, however, it is better to focus on the PzGr 40 belt to maximize penetration power.
  • PzGr 40: HVAP-T - Probably the best belt with the best penetrating shell for the vehicle. While the damage effects post-penetration can be quite poor, the rapid fire from the autocannon can mitigate this problem by following up quickly with another penetrating shot. In close combat, these shells should be used against modules and crew member to make the most of each shell. Against angled armour, however, the HVAP ammo may not be very effective. Unlike the Flakpanzer 1 and Flakpanzer 38, this belt is still 100% HVAP.
Penetration statistics
Belt Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Default 36 34 26 19 14 10
PzGr 36 34 26 19 14 10
PzGr 40 64 63 26 8 3 1
Belt details
Belt Type of
warhead
Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
Mass (kg)
Fuse delay
(m)
Fuse sensitivity
(mm)
Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
PzGr API-T 780 0.15 N/A N/A N/A 47° 60° 65°
PzGr 40 HVAP-T 1,050 0.1 N/A N/A N/A 66° 70° 72°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Pz.II C
Full
ammo
1st
rack empty
2nd
rack empty
3rd
rack empty
Visual
discrepancy
18 11 (+7) (+11) (+17) No
  • Right flank empty: 11 (+7)

Machine guns

Main article: MG34 (7.92 mm)

Mounted opposite to the 20 mm autocannon is the MG 34, which is loaded with a 50 round belt with an AP-I/AP-I/AP-T ammo pattern. With 13 mm of maximum penetration at point blank range, this gun's 800 RPM rate of fire will make short work of unarmoured vehicles like truck-based SPAA, as well as exposed enemy crewmen.

7.92 mm MG34
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 1,800 (150) 900 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

The main key to success with this vehicle is to drive aggressively, trying to take shots at relatively close range (100-300 meters or even less). Aim for the enemy's weak spots such as modules and crew members. Go for flank or rear shots in order to make the most of the 20 mm close-range penetration power on the enemy's thinner armour plates.

When positioning the Pz.II C, try to use the terrain to remain hull down so that a quick reverse can mask the hull. With this position, the Pz.II C can quickly scoot forward and fire off a few quick shots before reversing to a safe position away from enemy fire. Keep this in mind when attempting to ambush the enemy in an open arena with little cover, as cover and concealment are more reliable in disrupting enemy return fire accuracy than the Pz.II's thin armour.

Alternatively, the Pz.II C can be played as a support vehicle, a second line tank, to say the least, to assist more armoured allies when pushing the cap. Use short bursts (2-4 rounds ideally) to disable enemy vehicles by targeting weak points like their transmission or turret crew, then use the remaining ammo to take out the rest of the enemy crew, or let friendly tankers take them out for assists. The Pz.II C lacks the mobility to disengage and run from tanks like the M3 Stuarts or BT series tanks, but if their transmission, driver, or tracks are taken out, they will be temporarily immobilized and the Pz.II C player has bought themselves time to scurry back to friendly lines, where more powerful guns and numbers can be brought to counter the enemy.

Also, as a light tank with decent speed and low profile, the Pz.II C can act as a spotter (unfortunately without the use of the scout mechanics) to locate enemy tanks for allies to prioritize and hit with guns, artillery, or airstrikes.

Pz.II C driving through frozen pass

The biggest threat to the Pz.II C on the battlefield are tanks that have very good armour and firepower at the expense of their mobility. The Valentine, FCM.36, and Matilda are examples of tanks that will easily deflect even 20 mm PzGr 40 shots, either due to their impressive frontal hull and turret armour, or just because they are so slow that the Pz.II C will engage them at ranges that render the shell penetration power ineffective. If one of these tanks are spotted trundling along in the distance, do not bother taking the shot because the 20 mm are unlikely able to do even cosmetic damages, while at the same time drawing their attention and revealing the Pz.II C's position due to the shell tracers.

Generally speaking, if the target is about the size of a coin when looking at it on max zoom in the gunner's sight, it is too far for effective fire and should not be engaged.

A more advanced method of playing this is to use it like an autoloading gun from higher BRs - fire only one or two shots per click at a given time. This helps avoid spraying uselessly at bigger, more stubborn targets.

Modules

Tier Mobility Protection Firepower
I Tracks Parts Horizontal Drive
II Suspension Brake System FPE Adjustment of Fire PzGr
III Filters Crew Replenishment Elevation Mechanism
IV Transmission Engine Artillery Support PzGr 40

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Decent frontal armour: when angled it can be immune to common opponents like the BT-5, BT-7, M3A1 and A13
  • Overall superior firepower: autocannon shoots rapidly, resulting in denser fire, and with the PzGr 40 belt it can penetrate any tank, including the B1 bis when aiming correctly
  • Fast top speed and great agility makes it a great flanker
  • Curved turret armour of 30 mm plus -10 degrees gun depression allows it to hull-down on hills easily
  • Small width means it can manoeuvre through or hide in narrow passages in urban maps, allowing it to ambush or flank unexpectedly
  • Low profile makes it easy to hide behind bushes or cover
  • In Simulator mode, friendly fire is less likely due to the very distinct shape and profile

Cons:

  • Only performs well at close quarters combat, as both the AP and HVAP penetration drop below 30 mm past 500 m, making it struggle to penetrate common opponents such as the M3/M5 Stuart and B1 bis
  • Magazine-loaded armament means there is lengthy downtime for reloading where you are vulnerable
  • Survivability is still inadequate: unsloped armour plus closely-packed crew of 3 means it is very vulnerable to T-26, BT-5 or M8 Scott which all have explosive AP
  • Although top speed is good, it is still slower than other light tanks like the infamous BT-5, M8 Greyhound and M3/M5
  • Poor damage of 20 mm shells means that new players cannot effectively destroy spacious tanks like LVT(A)(1)
  • Low penetration when not using HVAP-T rounds. When stock it is useless against a B1 bis or M3/M5 (frontally)

History

Development

In 1934, the development of the new German tanks, which would be the Panzer III and Panzer IV, was falling behind schedule despite an urgent need for tanks. As a stopgap solution until the designs were finalized, the Germany Army submitted a request for a new tank, giving the responsibility of designing to Krupp, MAN, Henschel, and Daimler-Benz. The product was a design based off the German Panzer I light tank, but was larger with the addition of an extra bogie wheel and had a 20 mm autocannon as its main armament. The finished tank was designated the Panzer II and production was to start in 1935, but tank deliveries did not start until 18 months later. At this time, it was in a low rate production status by 1936. By the time the Panzer II reached the Ausf. C designation, it was fitted with an improved suspension system to support the tank's weight. The changes included five larger wheels attached to new leaf springs. In 1937, the Ausf. C entered full production with MAN and other manufacturers. Over 1,600 Panzer II light tanks were produced between 1937 to 1942.

Combat usage

The Panzer II would serve in the initial stages of World War II in Poland, France, North African Campaign, and Operation Barbarossa as Germany's most numerous tank (By May 1940, there were about a thousand Panzer Is and IIs, but only 381 Panzer III and 290 Panzer IVs). By 1941, it was clear that the Panzer II was starting to become obsolete. With increasing quantity of Panzer IIIs and IVs, the Panzer II was relegated to reconnaissance duties. By 1942, it was largely removed from front lines and production ceased by 1943. The turrets of these tanks were repurposed for use on defensive bunkers on the Atlantic Wall, and the chassis continued in service for other roles, such as a self-propelled gun and tank destroyer in the Wespe and Marder II respectively.

Early in the war during Poland and French Campaigns, the Panzer II Ausf. C's armour was deemed inadequate as every anti-tank weapon in service at the time could penetrate the armour. The German response was to increase the armour, first with a front armour increase to 30 mm on the Ausf. D, then ending with a 35 mm front armour and 20 mm side armour on the Panzer II Ausf. F.

In-game description

This variant of the Pz.Kpfw. II light tank was designed by Henschel and produced by Daimler-Benz.

The Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C was the third production variant of the tank. It differed from the Ausf. A and Ausf. B tank variants in its improved engine cooling system and the installation of 50 mm thick armored glass in the observation units. The new tank hull was 30 mm taller and 57 mm wider.

In 1940, Ausf.C variant tanks were upgraded: the frontal armor of the turret was reinforced with armor sheets 14.5 mm and 20 mm thick, and the frontal armor of the hull was further enhanced 20 mm plates. The construction of the body's front section was modified: over the bent 14.5 mm armor plating protecting the crew, two more plates were welded, joined to one another at a 70° angle. The upper plate had a thickness of 14.5 mm, the lower, 20 mm. A mounted turret which allowed for 360° observation replaced the two-hinged hatch in the tank's roof.

The front and rear rim of the turret was protected by a special armored collar. The gun mantlet was equipped with a protective lipped shield on the top and bottom that prevented the joints of the mantlet and edges of the opening from being hit with shrapnel. The gap between the turret box and turret was protected by an armored collar which was welded to the roof of the box. The driver/mechanic's hatch also received an armored shield.

The tank's armament remained unchanged, but a modified TZF4/38 sight was installed, and the rear of the hull could have smoke grenade launchers (two on each side) mounted to it.

Serial production of Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C tanks lasted from July 1938 to March 1940 and manufactured 100 vehicles.

Despite its outdated design and weak armament, the Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf. C was used very actively in combat until mid-1942. Some tank divisions on the Eastern Front used the tanks till 1943.

Media

Skins
Sights
Videos

See also

Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Germany light tanks
Pz.II  Pz.II C · Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.II C TD · Pz.II F · Pz.Sfl.Ic
Sd.Kfz.234  Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 TD
Marder  Marder A1- · Marder 1A3 · Begleitpanzer 57 · DF105
  PUMA
Wheeled  Sd.Kfz.221 (s.Pz.B.41) · Class 3 (P) · Radkampfwagen 90
Other  Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS
Argentina  TAM · TAM 2C · TAM 2IP · JaPz.K A2
Czechoslovakia  Pz.35(t) · Pz.38(t) A · Pz.38(t) F · Pz.38(t) n.A. · Sd.Kfz. 140/1
France  Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK
Lithuania  Vilkas
USA  leKPz M41
USSR  SPz BMP-1